When there is a new challenger for someone’s crown every year, you know they are the best at what they do. T.J. Watt, Nick Bosa, and Micah Parsons are all great pass rushers, but none is as consistent as Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett.
On Sunday, he’ll be the Christmas Eve appetizer for a Houston Texans offensive line that will welcome him with open arms—the most merciful outcome for some of his snaps being a holding call.
He’ll be a difficult task for a Houston offensive line that is looking to protect (presumably) quarterback Case Keenum, who isn’t as quick as the rookie he’s replacing. Limiting the best player on what could be the league’s best defense will be critical in stealing a win from a 9-5 Cleveland team with playoff hopes of its own.
On Wednesday, Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans lavished praise on the superstar.
“One of the best players each and every year he’s been in the league,” he said. “He’s a headache. How do you deal with him? The Browns do an excellent job of moving such a great player. Myles is a phenomenal talent, a true generational talent.”
Garrett has 13 sacks in 14 games this season, his sixth consecutive 10+ sack season. Garrett has led Cleveland to league-best marks in expected points added per play and success rate, aided by arguably the best supporting cast he’s ever had.
Simply put, the Browns’ defense is a mess, and it all starts with one of the game’s most feared players.
Related: A Texans victory over the Browns seems unlikely, but that’s nothing new. The Texans offensive line is banged up, as it has been throughout the season. While Laremy Tunsil, Shaq Mason, and George Fant all have a chance to play – Tunsil and Mason were DNPs on Wednesday, while Fant was full – a lack of continuity is a concern up front. Ryans devised the best plan he could to stop him, though even that frequently feels futile.
“You have to be aware of where he is at all times,” Ryans told reporters. “At times, you have to handle him with two. You must be vigilant in terms of both protection and communication. It’s difficult for everyone. He’s a troublemaker.” According to Pro Football Focus’ defense grade, pass-rush grade, and pass-rush win rate, Garrett is the best edge rusher in football. Stopping him requires mitigation rather than elimination. Houston’s (8-6) performance could be decisive in the tight races for the AFC South and the remaining spots in the AFC playoff picture.
